Callum Roberts who arrived at The Bell, an emergency support living centre, after finding himself homeless at just 16 years old, has turned his life-changing experience into an inspiring song ‘Blessings in The Bell’; written and recorded entirely on his own. The song was recently played at a high profile housing event.
Callum Roberts (aka Gordz) was made homeless in August 2024 aged just 16. Emergency accommodation came when he needed it most, and he was given a place to live at The Bell in Colwyn Bay.
The placement had a profound effect on Callum’s life, and he channelled his gratitude and the hope he felt, into creating a song which expresses the emotions he felt at the time. The track, which was written and recorded over the course of a week and simply recorded on an iPhone was recently played at the Community Housing Cymru Annual Conference in Cardiff.
The moment ‘Blessings in The Bell’ came on, Callum was ecstatic. Staff from Callum’s supported living accommodation were also there in person, to see the reaction and help Callum to celebrate his achievement. Attendees were able to hear the message behind the song, and see the genuine impact that emergency accommodation can make in a time of need.
When Callum arrived at The Bell, he had no idea what to expect. The Bell offered more than a place to sleep; Callum found people who listened and cared for him, treated him with warmth and offered the stability that is desperately needed by a young person without a home.
Said Callum, who goes by the stage name Gordz: “The staff and the other residents looked after me. I felt safe. I wanted to write something that explained what that meant to me.”
The lyrics reflect not only the struggles that Callum faced, but also the hope he found in the weeks and months following becoming homeless.
Although Callum has no formal training, music is a big part of his life. Callum’s brother helped him to get started making tracks and encouraging him with his musical endeavours. The result is an honest and uplifting track, that captures Callum’s resilience.
Said Callum: “I put my emotions into it because I want people to know that no matter what you’re going through, there’s always hope.
“I was really proud to hear my song played at the conference and hopefully, I will be able to carry on making music.”
Callum is now living in Llandudno and as well as creating music, he aspires to pursue a career in construction. And at the same time, he is already building a following on social media where he posts his music and connects with others.
Susan Stephenson, Manager at The Bell went along to Cardiff with Callum to see his song being played. Susan said: “It was fabulous to hear ‘Blessings in The Bell’ so loud. Callum was beaming with pride and so were we!”
“It’s wonderful to see Callum using his talent to inspire others.”
Now, following his first public recognition, Callum has plans to carry on writing and recording music.
Edward Hughes, Executive Director of Care and Support at ClwydAlyn said: “Callum is proof that a safe, warm home and the right support can help to transform a young person’s life. We are looking forward to seeing what the future holds for Callum.”
To hear Callum’s music, head over to Instagram @calgordz
To listen to Callum’s song ‘Blessings in The Bell’ visit: https://tinyurl.com/449487um
To find out more about ClwydAlyn’s supported living accommodation, visit: Supported Living – Clwydalyn